The tent, which looks like a wedding marquee or, maybe, an isolation ward,  is really just a canopy over scaffolding for workers as they replace the building's skylights, which have been leaking.

The Canberra Times reported late last year that the government had provided $18.3 million in funding to fix the leaks, with mopping up after storms a common occurrence.

It's now nine months along and the tent is still there. So for how much longer?

The Department of Parliamentary Services said the scaffolding and canopy would remain until at least November.

"The structures on the roof are part of a project to refurbish the three main skylights, above the Main Committee Room, Members Hall and the Great Hall. Work is also occurring to refurbish the glass Link-ways around the building,'' the department said.

"The glass panels in all three rooftop skylights are being replaced. The scaffolding and weatherproof canopies have allowed work to be conducted at all hours and in all weather, to minimise disruption to building occupants.

"The scaffold and canopy over the Main Committee Room was recently removed. The scaffold and canopy over The Members Hall will be removed this month. The scaffold and canopy over the Great Hall will be in place until the refurbishment of that skylight is completed in November this year.

"The roof will be closed, only temporarily, from Monday, August 6, as part of the skylight project but will re-open as soon as possible.''